In the song, Nipsey references his son, Kross, and daughter, Emani. The late rapper also reminisces on his life, which some consider the ultimate success story.

Nipsey Hussle began his career as a street rapper. The young artist got his breakthrough when The Game heard his mixtape and invited Nipsey to be a part of his shows. Before finding success, however, Hussle faced the challenges that many young men encounter while growing up in South Los Angeles. “Homicide, hate, gang bangin’ will get you all day,” Nipsey says in the song. The rapper tells listeners that his life has been a series of grace moments extended by God.

Nipsey Hussle was murdered outside of his clothing store, Marathon Clothing, on March 31, 2019. The rapper was 33-years-old at the time of his passing and the father of two children.

“DJ Khaled put us together on this song, which was really beautiful,” John Legend said of his collaboration with the late rapper for ‘Higher’ during a recent interview with Extra. “[Nipsey] was telling a lot of his story, his family’s story,” the singer added. “Little did we know that three days after we filmed the video his life would be taken so quickly. To honor him and donate the proceeds to his family is a beautiful thing for Khaled to do and I am happy to be a part of it.”

A post shared by John Legend (@johnlegend) on May 15, 2019 at 8:18pm PDT

DJ Khaled released ‘Higher’ after receiving the blessing to do so from Nipsey Hussle’s family. “The very title of the song reminds us that vibrating on a ‘Higher’ level was the essence of Nipsey’s soul,” Khaled shared in a statement. “It is in this spirit, of moving forward, of preserving his mission that I, my co-writers, producers, and label partners are donating 100% of all our proceeds from ‘Higher’ to Nipsey’s children, Emani and Kross.”

Watch the music video for ‘Higher’ below. Listen to the track in your car or from your smartphone when you download DJ Khaled’s new album, Father of Asahd today. Stay tuned for more celebrity family news!

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Sarie is a writer and editor for BCK's Los Angeles division. She also shares stories on Medium that are meant to encourage thought and discussion. You can "cash" her "ousside" enjoying nature and classical literature. Pop culture is pretty fun, too!